New Democrats Applaud Proposed Korea-U.S. Free Trade Agreement (KORUS)
Pact gives American exporters access to millions of new customers and a growing market.
Today, leaders of the New Democrat Coalition, led by Congressman Joseph Crowley (NY-7) and the New Dem Trade Task Force Co-Chairs Congressman Adam Smith (WA-9) and Congressman Jim Moran (VA-8), released the following statement regarding President Obama's announcement that a deal has been reached with Korea to facilitate passage of the trade agreement between our two countries:
"We welcome today's announcement by President Obama that a deal has been reached to clear the way for enactment of a trade agreement with Korea. The New Dems have been very supportive of negotiating improvements to this agreement with Korea and we applaud the significant step taken today to expand export opportunities for U.S. companies and cut down the trade barriers imposed on our automakers.
"Our nation's top priority is creating good, high-paying American jobs. One way we can strengthen our domestic economy is by opening up global markets to Americans goods and services. This pact will create jobs in many sectors including, the American agricultural, high-tech and financial services sectors. Additionally, the agreement implements important bipartisan reforms to protect workers' rights and the environment.
"The New Democrats look forward to working with our colleagues to ensure congressional passage of the Korea-U.S. Free Trade Agreement. In addition to continuing to focus on enforcing our existing agreements, it is time to create new opportunities for American exports, level the playing field for American goods and services, create American jobs, and strengthen our national security."
The New Democrats have a record of advocating for moving forward with a comprehensive trade agenda, and finalizing the Korea FTA:
- At the beginning of the year, the New Dems urged the Administration to move forward with a proactive trade agenda. (Click here to view a letter that was sent to President Obama.)
- In March, the New Dems unveiled priorities for a comprehensive trade agenda which included moving forward with Korea FTA. (Click here to view the New Democrats' Trade Policy Agenda)
- In July, 24 New Dems joined their colleagues in the House to send a letter to President Obama in support of moving forward with the Korean-U.S. Free Trade Agreement. (Click here to view the letter)
Statement supported by New Democrat Trade Task Force Co-Chairs Representative Adam Smith (WA-09) and Representative Jim Moran (VA-8), and the New Dem Leadership Members, led by Chair Representative Joseph Crowley (NY-07), and Vice-Chairs Representative Melissa Bean (IL-08), Representative Ron Kind (WI-03), Representative Allyson Schwartz (PA-13), and Representative Adam Smith (WA-09).?
The New Democrat Coalition is a Coalition of 69 members of the U.S. House of Representatives who are dedicated to the prosperity and security of American families and business. Founded in 1997, the NDC provides Members of Congress with the opportunity to advance a common sense policy agenda focused on empowering the U.S. to grow economically and maintain a vibrant job market, preserving the U.S. standing as the world's leader in innovation and technological advancement, and strengthening our economic and national security. For more information, visit the New Dems website at https://ndc.crowley.house.gov.
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